Page 56 of Property of Chux

I glare at him, but he just finishes his bear claw and turns toward Kelly, murmuring something low enough that I can’t hear it.

Kelly smiles her whole face softening, and suddenly, the teasing doesn’t feel so funny anymore.

Because this?This isn’t just some hook-up for her.

My chest squeezes a little.

Damn.

I think my best friend just fell for a biker. If only I knew how to read that biker.

The rush comes and goes, leaving the bakery full of satisfied customers and a mountain of dishes.

Kelly finally stops looking like she wants to murder me every time I make a joke, and Riot actually leaves at some point, which means I can function in my own damn bakery without thinking of hearing my best friend getting absolutely wrecked in my back office.

The bell above the door jingles, and I glance up from the register—only to find Riot standing there again arms crossed, looking at me like he’s got something to say.

I raise an eyebrow. “You can’t still be hungry.”

Riot snorts. “Nah.”

Kelly pops up from the back, wiping her hands on her apron, and the second she spots him, her face lights up.

Yeah. She’s gone.

Riot gives her a look, something unspoken passing between them before he jerks his chin at me. “I’m taking her for a ride. That cool?”

I roll my eyes. “She’s a grown woman. I don’t control her.”

Kelly steps around the counter, grinning. “Thank you.”

Riot watches her for a second before turning back to me. “You coming by the clubhouse later?”

I blink. “Why?”

His lips twitch. “Because Chux said if I don’t bring you, he’s just gonna come get you himself.”

I huff, shaking my head. “That man is impossible.”

Riot shrugs. “Yeah. And you love it.”

I open my mouth to argue, but Kelly’s knowing look has me shutting it just as fast.

They both laugh, and Riot grips Kelly’s hand, leading her toward the door.

As I watch them walk out, I exhale, rubbing the back of my neck.

This world? These men?

They’re supposed to be dangerous, not cute.

But somehow, they’re the safest thing I’ve ever known.

And that scares me more than anything.

The ride to the clubhouse is quiet, but my heart is anything but. The night air is warm, the hum of the road beneath me steady as I drive through the familiar streets. I don’t know why I feel nervous, but something in my gut tells me tonight isn’t just another night at the Kings’ clubhouse.

Something’s different.

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